Serum Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor as a Potential Biomarker for Immune-related Adverse Events

Abstract

Background/aim: Biomarkers for immune-related adverse events (irAEs) induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are required. We encountered a patient whose skin irAE fluctuated in parallel with serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R).

Patients and methods: We examined 15 patients with cancer who received ICIs. Serum sIL-2R levels before and during ICI treatment were measured. The sIL-2R levels of preserved serum samples from another five patients who developed grade 3 irAEs were measured.

Results: Twelve patients showed no significant changes in sIL-2R levels during ICI treatment. Baseline serum sIL-2R levels in three patients increased beyond the normal range before the second cycle. These three patients had grade ≥2 irAEs at the second cycle treatment visit, supporting our hypothesis. Furthermore, at diagnosis of irAEs, the sIL-2R levels of all preserved samples from patients with grade 3 irAEs were significantly elevated.

Conclusion: Serum sIL-2R is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of irAEs.

Keywords: Immune checkpoint inhibitor; immune-related adverse event; serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor.